Faith & Mission

Greetings!  As you well know the new school year is well and truly underway.  The following activities have already occurred.

On 8th February, we had a combined Opening Liturgy and High Achievers Assembly.  For my part I played a video from the Opening Ceremony of the Rio Paralympics “Yes you Can”. If you get the chance, please have a look as it reminds all of us that it is possible to overcome many of the issues we “think” hold us back.  Lia Mailes also made mention of Fr John Corrigan’s reference to Catherine of Sienna’s quote “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire”.  Some very positive thoughts for the start of the year. The High Achievers component of this gathering was a wonderful recognition of the results of our 2025 cohort, also an opportunity to welcome the new staff.

On Wednesday, 18th February, our school community gathered for a whole school liturgy to mark Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the 40-day season of Lent — a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and penance in preparation for Easter.  This year, Fr Shane encouraged each Pod group to “take up” something meaningful for Lent rather than the traditional practice of giving something up.  Each Pod thoughtfully chose a faith-filled commitment, such as showing kindness to new students or reconnecting with a relative or friend they have not spoken to in some time. As a symbol of these intentions, every Pod group wrote their Lenten promise on a ribbon in their house colour, and a representative tied it to the wooden cross, now displayed in the College's Chapel, as a visible reminder of our shared commitment this Lenten season.

6th March is World Day of Prayer.  An opportunity to hold up our world and its many needs as well as a time to pray for people in our own lives in need of our prayer.

19th March, Fr Mark Freeman will be installed as the new Bishop of Ballarat Diocese, and we will also farewell Bishop Paul Bird.  Bishop Paul has done an amazing job in a very difficult time in the life of our local Church.

During Lent the school will once again commit to supporting the work of Caritas through Project Compassion.  We are very aware that for many people finances are tight but if you can support this important work, we would be very grateful.

Sunday, 15th March at @ St Mary’s 10:30am Mass the Monivae College Community will be leading the celebration.  It is a time when we as a community acknowledge and thank the parish for their ongoing support.  All are welcome and please join the parish for morning tea at the conclusion of Mass.

World’s Greatest Shave will take place on the last day of term (2nd April) at lunchtime. Year 12 students can participate in having their hair cut or shaved to raise money for blood cancer.

Blessings to all for a great weekend.

Fr Shane & Mrs Lia Mailes